US citizens can visit American Samoa for 30 days without a visa; others need to apply for one. This article will help you understand how to apply for a permit or visa and explain the steps.
American Samoa Entry Requirements
To enter American Samoa, foreign visitors need a local sponsor responsible for them during their stay. Here’s what’s required:
- Sponsorship: A local in American Samoa must agree to be your sponsor.
- Application Submission: At least three business days before arrival, the sponsor must submit an entry permit application to the Immigration Office. This includes:
- A completed entry permit application.
- Copies of the visitor’s travel documents that will remain valid.
- A roundtrip ticket to the visitor’s home country or an onward ticket.
- Possibly, medical and police clearances from the visitor’s home country, along with clearances from American Samoa’s court and hospital.
- Signatures: The application must be signed by the sponsor, their senior matai (if living on communal land), and the village pulenu’u or District Governor.
- Fees: The required application fees must be paid.
Who Needs an Entry Permit?
Anyone who is not a US citizen needs an entry permit to visit American Samoa. This includes people from countries that usually don’t need a visa to enter the US because American Samoa follows its own immigration rules.
How to Apply for an American Samoa Entry Permit:
To apply for an American Samoa entry permit, follow these steps:
- Fill Out the Application Form: Complete the form with your information, travel details, and visit purpose. Make sure it’s correct to avoid issues.
- Gather Required Documents: You will need a valid passport, proof of where you’ll stay in American Samoa, return tickets, and proof you have enough money for your trip. Business visitors need a letter from their company.
- Pay the Application Fee: There’s a fee that won’t be given back if you pay it. The cost can change, so check the American Samoa Immigration Office’s website for the latest.
- Submit Your Application: After you have everything ready, send it to the American Samoa Immigration Office, either by mail or at a consulate. Since it takes time to process, send it in well before you plan to travel.
Application Process:
Here’s how to apply smoothly:
- Check Your Documents: Make sure every document is valid and filled out correctly to prevent delays.
- Apply Early: Start your application early to have enough time for processing, especially if you’re going to an event or during busy travel times.
- Stay Updated: Keep an eye on how your application is doing. Feel free to contact the American Samoa Immigration Office if you have questions or want to know your status.
Arrival in American Samoa
When you get to American Samoa with your entry permit, you’ll need to go through customs and immigration. Show them your documents, like the entry permit. They might ask about your visit, so be ready to talk about where you’re staying and what you plan to do in American Samoa.